There are many consequences to a driving under the influence (DUI) conviction. You may lose your driver’s license for a period of time, which could affect your ability to get to work, school, the gym, or your child’s daycare center. You may incur large fines and penalties, which would affect your paycheck, your bank account, and possibly more. Furthermore, if you caused an accident as a result of driving under the influence, you may have to pay restitution to any victims for their losses. There is also possible jail time, probation, an ignition interlock device (IID), and possibly other facets of a DUI sentence.

A judge also may require you to attend DUI school which may include mandatory alcohol education, assessment and treatment requirements. You may have many questions about the importance of these classes, but perhaps the most imminent question is: should I even go to DUI school? While the answer may depend on your desire to have a valid driver’s license and comply with the conditions of your probationary terms, about the following information summarizes the importance of DUI school.

What is DUI School?

DUI school is a series of courses, which may include a substance abuse treatment assessment, you may be required to take as part of probationary sentence. The classes are meant to teach offenders about the effects of alcohol on the human body, the effects of illegal or prescription drugs and/or alcohol on your ability to safely operate a motor vehicle, and to deter you from repeat behavior.

How Long are the Classes?

The length of the classes depends upon the nature and severity of the crime, including your blood alcohol concentration (BAC). For instance, in California, the court can order you to attend a course as brief as 12 hours (usually broken up into two hours per week) or as lengthy as a 30-month program for habitual offenders.

Do I Have to Attend Classes?

We know. You really didn’t like school. Or maybe you really don’t have time to take classes. Whatever your reason, successful completion of a DUI program is usually a requirement of any probation. If you violate your probation, the judge can issue a bench warrant for your arrest. The violation subjects you to an additional jail or prison sentence. So, the answer on whether you should attend DUI school is often better phrased as, do you want to risk violating the terms of your probation?

A further point to consider is whether or not your want you driver’s license reinstated. If you do not take or complete your DUI classes, your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) can withhold your license for an extended period of time. You may not be eligible for license reinstatement and may be required to return to court for further action.

On the positive side, if you do complete your classes per the terms of your probation, you may possibly be able to get your driver’s license reinstated earlier than the initial sentence. You’ll want to speak to a DUI attorney in your area to learn more.

Should You Go To DUI School? Ask an Attorney

The decision to go to DUI school is one you may not want to take lightly – especially if you want your driver’s license reinstated. An experienced attorney can review the facts of your case, analyze the evidence against you, and advocate for your best interests. Contact a local DUI attorney today.

Next Steps

Contact a qualified DUI attorney to make sure your rights are protected.